Work vehicle with commodity metering system and airflow system

ABSTRACT

A work vehicle with a metering system, airflow system, and a covering structure moveable between various positions for user access includes features that facilitate assembly and/or disassembly of the metering system. The work vehicle has a venturi structure with a plurality of venturi tubes that are disposed in a compact arrangement.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This is a divisional application of U.S. application Ser. No.16/733,387, filed Jan. 3, 2020, now allowed, which is a divisionalapplication of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/670,834, filed Aug. 7, 2017,now U.S. Pat. No. 10,555,455, issued Feb. 11, 2020.

STATEMENT OF FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to work vehicles and implements, and morespecifically, to a work vehicle with an improved volumetric meteringsystem and/or an improved airflow system.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Work vehicles, such as air seeders and other seeding devices, areconfigured for applying seed, fertilizer, and/or other particulatecommodities to a field. The work vehicle may also include tillingequipment for applying the commodity under the surface of the soil.

Work vehicles typically include one or more tanks and a metering systemthat meters out a predetermined quantity of the commodity from the tankas the work vehicle moves across the field. The metered particles moveinto a high velocity airstream generated by an airflow system of thevehicle. Once in the airstream, the particles are delivered to the soil.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure provides a commodity-distributing work vehicle withvarious improvements. For example, the work vehicle of the presentdisclosure may include one or more features that increase accessibilityof the metering system, the airstream system, and/or other areas. Somefeatures may facilitate assembly and disassembly of these systems, forexample, when cleaning out the machine. Also, the work vehicle mayinclude a venturi structure with plural venturi tubes arranged in acompact manner.

In one aspect, the disclosure provides a work vehicle that includes acommodity container and a metering assembly configured to meter acommodity out from the commodity container along an axis. The workvehicle also includes an airflow structure that defines at least one airpassage for an airstream. The airflow structure is supported formovement relative to the metering assembly between a first position anda second position. The airflow structure, in the first position, isconfigured to receive units of the commodity travelling generally alongthe axis to be introduced into the airstream. The airflow structure, inthe second position, is spaced away from the metering assembly toprovide unobstructed access to the metering assembly along the axis inan upstream direction.

In another aspect, a work vehicle is disclosed that includes a frame anda commodity container that is supported by the frame. The work vehiclealso includes a metering system configured to meter a commodity out fromthe commodity container. The metering system includes a metering elementand a plurality of commodity tubes configured to receive the commodityfrom the metering element. Furthermore, the work vehicle includes acovering structure with a panel that is supported on the frame formovement between a first position and a second position. The panel issubstantially rigid. The panel, in the first position, covers themetering element and the plurality of commodity tubes. The panel, in thesecond position, exposes the metering element and the plurality ofcommodity tubes.

In an additional aspect, the disclosure provides a work vehicle thatincludes a commodity container and a metering system configured to metera commodity out from the commodity container. The metering systemincludes a metering element, a support structure, and a latch mechanismwith a biasing member. The latch mechanism is configured to move betweena latched position and an unlatched position. The latch mechanism, inthe latched position, retains the metering element to the supportstructure. The latch mechanism, in the unlatched position, releases themetering element from the support structure. The biasing member biasesthe latch mechanism toward the latched position. The latch mechanism isconfigured to move the metering element away from the support structureas the latch mechanism moves from the latched position toward theunlatched position.

In a further aspect, a metering system is disclosed for a work vehicle.The metering system includes a support structure with a passage. Themetering system also includes a divider member having a barrier wall anda retainer. The barrier wall includes a notch. The retainer attaches thedivider member to the support structure. The metering system furtherincludes a rotatable metering element with a shaft and a projection thatprojects from the shaft substantially in a radial direction. The shaftis removably received within the notch. The rotatable metering elementis configured to rotate within the notch relative to the supportstructure such that the projection meters out a commodity into thepassage of the support structure. The barrier wall directs at least someof the commodity into the passage.

In another aspect, an airflow structure of a work vehicle is disclosedthat includes a first venturi tube and a second venturi tube. Theairflow structure also includes a support structure that is fixed to thefirst venturi tube and the second venturi tube. The support structureincludes a first passage that is fluidly connected to the first venturitube, a second passage that is fluidly connected to the second venturitube, and a divider wall between the first passage and the secondpassage.

In an additional aspect, a work vehicle is disclosed that includes aframe defining a front end and a rear end. The work vehicle alsoincludes a commodity container that is supported on the frame and thatis configured to hold a commodity. The work vehicle also includes avolumetric metering assembly disposed proximate the rear end of theframe. The metering assembly includes a rotatable metering elementconfigured to rotate to meter out the commodity from the commoditycontainer. Also, the work vehicle includes an airflow system that isdisposed proximate the rear end of the frame. The airflow systemincludes an airflow structure configured to receive the commoditymetered out from the metering system. The airflow structure includes aplenum and a venturi. The plenum is configured to deliver an airstreamto the venturi. The venturi is configured to accelerate the airstreamwith the commodity therein away from the work vehicle. The meteringassembly is manually accessible at the rear end of the work vehicle.

The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanyingdrawings and the description below. Other features and advantages willbecome apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a work vehicle according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the work vehicle ofFIG. 1 that includes a metering assembly and a plenum assembly;

FIG. 3 is a section view of the central assembly taken along the line3-3 of FIG. 2 ;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view, wherein moveable parts of themetering assembly and plenum assembly are shown in various positions;

FIG. 5 is a lower perspective view, wherein the metering assembly isshown in an extended position;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the metering assembly of FIG. 2 ;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a divider member of the meteringassembly of FIG. 2 ;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the metering assembly of FIG. 2 ,wherein a roller cartridge is shown in a latched position;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the metering assembly of FIG. 2 ,wherein the roller cartridge is shown in an unlatched position;

FIG. 10 is a section view showing movement of the plenum assembly from araised position to a lowered position is shown;

FIG. 11 is a section view showing movement of the metering assembly froma retracted position to an extended position;

FIG. 12 is a section view showing the plenum assembly in the loweredposition, the metering assembly in the extended position, and a coveringstructure of the metering assembly shown in an extended position;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the plenum assembly of FIG. 2 ; and

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a venturi structure of the plenumassembly of FIG. 13 .

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following describes one or more example embodiments of a workvehicle, its metering system, its airflow system, and more, as shown inthe accompanying figures of the drawings described briefly above.Various modifications to the example embodiments may be contemplated byone of skill in the art.

As used herein, unless otherwise limited or modified, lists withelements that are separated by conjunctive terms (e.g., “and”) and thatare also preceded by the phrase “one or more of” or “at least one of”indicate configurations or arrangements that potentially includeindividual elements of the list, or any combination thereof. Forexample, “at least one of A, B, and C” or “one or more of A, B, and C”indicates the possibilities of only A, only B, only C, or anycombination of two or more of A, B, and C (e.g., A and B; B and C; A andC; or A, B, and C).

Furthermore, in detailing the disclosure, terms of direction, such as“forward,” “rear,” “front,” “back,” “lateral,” “horizontal,” and“vertical” may be used. Such terms are defined, at least in part, withrespect to the direction in which the work vehicle or implement travelsduring use. The term “forward” and the abbreviated term “fore” (and anyderivatives and variations) refer to a direction corresponding to thedirection of travel of the work vehicle, while the term “aft” (andderivatives and variations) refer to an opposing direction. The term“fore-aft axis” may also reference an axis extending in fore and aftdirections. By comparison, the term “lateral axis” may refer to an axisthat is perpendicular to the fore-aft axis and extends in a horizontalplane; that is, a plane containing both the fore-aft and lateral axes.The term “vertical,” as appearing herein, refers to an axis or adirection orthogonal to the horizontal plane containing the fore-aft andlateral axes.

As used herein, the term “module” refers to any hardware, software,firmware, electronic control component, processing logic, and/orprocessor device, individually or in any combination, including withoutlimitation: application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), anelectronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) and memorythat executes one or more software or firmware programs, a combinationallogic circuit, and/or other suitable components that provide thedescribed functionality.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may be described herein in termsof functional and/or logical block components and various processingsteps. It should be appreciated that such block components may berealized by any number of hardware, software, and/or firmware componentsconfigured to perform the specified functions. For example, anembodiment of the present disclosure may employ various integratedcircuit components, e.g., memory elements, digital signal processingelements, logic elements, look-up tables, or the like, which may carryout a variety of functions under the control of one or moremicroprocessors or other control devices. In addition, those skilled inthe art will appreciate that embodiments of the present disclosure maybe practiced in conjunction with any number of systems, and that thework vehicle described herein is merely one exemplary embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

Conventional techniques related to signal processing, data transmission,signaling, control, and other functional aspects of the systems (and theindividual operating components of the systems) may not be described indetail herein for brevity. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown inthe various figures contained herein are intended to represent examplefunctional relationships and/or physical couplings between the variouselements. It should be noted that many alternative or additionalfunctional relationships or physical connections may be present in anembodiment of the present disclosure.

The following describes one or more example implementations of thedisclosed work vehicle for metering and delivering a commodity to thesoil, as shown in the accompanying figures of the drawings describedbriefly above. Generally, the disclosed work vehicle improves access tothe metering system, the airflow system, and/or other areas of themachine for more convenient clean out, as compared to conventionalsystems. The disclosed work vehicle also includes features thatfacilitate assembly and/or disassembly of the metering system.Furthermore, the work vehicle of the present disclosure provides anairflow structure that is more effective, more compact, and/or moreconvenient to install and replace than those of the prior art.

FIG. 1 illustrates a work vehicle 100 according to example embodimentsof the present disclosure. The work vehicle 100 may be towed by anothervehicle, such as a tractor. Thus, the work vehicle 100 may be a towedwork vehicle. In other embodiments, the work vehicle 100 of the presentdisclosure may be a self-propelled vehicle. In some embodiments, thework vehicle 100 may be an air cart or air drill. It will be appreciatedthat the illustrated work vehicle 100 is an example embodiment. One ormore features of the present disclosure may be included on a differentwork vehicle, such as a planter, a commodity cart, or other work vehiclewithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The work vehicle 100 includes a front end 114 and a rear end 116, and afore-aft axis 118 extends generally between the front and rear ends 114,116. The work vehicle 100 also includes a first side 120 and a secondside 122, and a lateral axis 124 extends generally between the first andsecond sides 120, 122. A vertical axis 126 extends perpendicular to boththe fore-aft axis 118 and the lateral axis 124.

Generally, the work vehicle 100 may include a chassis 110 and aplurality of wheels 112. The chassis 110 may be a rigid frame thatsupports the components described in detail below. The wheels 112 maysupport the chassis 110 and enable movement of the vehicle 100 acrossthe field.

The work vehicle 100 may also include one or more commodity containers128. The container 128 may be supported on the chassis 110 and disposedproximate the rear end 116. Also, in some embodiments, the container 128may be disposed centrally between the first side 120 and the second side122. The commodity container 128 may contain seed, fertilizer, and/oranother particulate or granular commodity.

Additionally, the work vehicle 100 may include a metering system 130.The metering system 130 may be a volumetric metering system. Themetering system 130 may be disposed generally underneath the commoditycontainer 128 in some embodiments. As such, particles of the commoditywithin the container 128 may fall due to gravity toward the meteringsystem 130. The metering system 130 may operate to meter out thecommodity (e.g., by volume) from the container 128 at a controlled rateas the vehicle 100 moves across the field.

The work vehicle 100 may also include an airflow system 132. The airflowsystem 132 may include a fan 134 that generates a flow of air. Theairflow system 132 may also include a plurality of airflow structures(e.g., plenums, tubes, lines, etc.) that receive the air blowing fromthe fan 134. Particles of the commodity (metered out by the meteringsystem 130) may fall into the air stream and may flow to a distributionsystem 136. The distribution system 136 may include a plurality ofhoses, lines, or other conduits that extend to different areas of thevehicle 100 along the lateral axis 124. The particles of the commoditymay be propelled by the airstream through the distribution system 136toward the soil. The work vehicle 100 may also include a ground system138 with openers, tillers or other similar implements that prepare thesoil for delivery of the seed, fertilizer, or other commodity deliveredby the distribution system 136.

Moreover, the work vehicle 100 may include a control system 140. Thecontrol system 140 may be in communication with and may be configuredfor controlling the metering system 130, the airflow system 132, and/orother components of the work vehicle 100. The control system 140 may bewholly supported on the work vehicle 100, or the control system 140 mayinclude components that are remote from the vehicle 100. The controlsystem 140 may be in electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, orother communication with the metering system 130, the airflow system132, etc. In some embodiments, the control system 140 may be incommunication with actuators, sensors, and/or other components of thework vehicle 100.

During operation of the work vehicle 100 (e.g., when towed by a tractoror other towing vehicle across a field), the commodity may fall from thecontainer 128 toward the metering system 130. The control system 140 maycontrol the metering system 130 (e.g., by controlled actuation of amotor or other actuator), which allows a controlled quantity ofparticles to pass into the airflow system 132 at a predetermined rate.The control system 140 may also control the fan 134 for generating acontinuous airstream that blows through the airflow system 132, receivesthe particles metered out from the metering system 130, and flowsthrough the distribution system 136 across the work vehicle 100 to thesoil.

The work vehicle 100 may include one or more components that are mountedfor movement, for example, relative to the chassis 110. In somesituations, the user may need to move these components when cleaning outthe work vehicle 100. In some embodiments, these components may bemounted such that a single person can move these components. In someembodiments, the user may move and/or remove these components manually,by hand, and without the aid of extra tools. These components, theirconstruction, and their methods of use and assembly provide substantialimprovements. For example, the work vehicle 100 of the presentdisclosure may facilitate disassembly, re-assembly, clean-out, repair,part replacement, and more.

These components will be discussed in greater detail with reference toFIGS. 2-5 , which show in detail a portion of the work vehicle 100. Inparticular, a central assembly 148 of the work vehicle 100 is shown. Thecentral assembly 148 may be supported on the chassis 110, proximate therear end 116 of the vehicle 100. Also, in some embodiments, the centralassembly 148 may define portions of the commodity container 128, themetering system 130, and/or the airflow system 132.

Referring initially to FIG. 2 , the central assembly 148 may include aframe 150 with a first plate 152 and a second plate 154 that areseparated at a distance along the lateral axis 124. The first and secondplates 154 may be strong, rigid members made, for example, from steel,aluminum, or other metal. In some embodiments, the first and secondplates 152, 154 and/or other portions of the frame 150 may be fixed tothe chassis 110 of the vehicle 100. As will be discussed, the first andsecond plates 152, 154 may support other components of the centralassembly 148.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 , the central assembly 148 may further includea trough member 156. The trough member 156 may be generally box-shapedwith an open top end 158. The trough member 156 may include a rear wall160 that faces generally toward the rear end 116 of the vehicle 100. Thetrough member 156 may also include an opposite front wall 162. Thetrough member 156 may further include an upper lip 164 that defines theopen top end 158.

The trough member 156 may be elongate along the lateral axis 124 betweenthe first plate 152 and the second plate 154. The upper lip 164 may besupported atop and fixed to the first plate 152, the second plate 154and/or other portions of the frame 150. The trough member 156 mayreceive the seed, fertilizer, or other commodity within the commoditycontainer 128 (FIG. 1 ). The commodity may collect within the troughmember 156.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the rear wall 160 of the trough member 156may include one or more wall members 166. In some embodiments, arepresentative wall member 166 may be substantially thin, flat platewith an upper flange 168. The wall member 166 may be mounted formovement to a respective support member 170 (FIG. 4 ). In someembodiments, the wall member 166 may be slideably supported by supportmembers 170 (i.e., slider supports) on opposite edges of the wall member166. Accordingly, the wall member 166 may slide upward to a raisedposition and slide downward to a lowered position. (In FIG. 4 , an endwall member 172 is shown in the raised position, and the remaining wallmembers 166 are shown in the lowered position.) In some embodiments, thewall members 166 may be controlled by an actuator, such as a mechanicallinear actuator, a solenoid, etc. The control system 140 may control theactuator for controlled movement of the wall members 166. It will beappreciated that the wall member 166 may be positioned in the raisedposition, the lowered position, and any number of intermediatepositions. The position of the wall member 166 may control the size(i.e., area) of a rear opening 174 of the trough member 156.

The commodity may pass out of the trough member 156 via the rearopenings 174 and fall toward the metering system 130 as will bediscussed in greater detail below. Thus, when raised, the wall members166 may increase the flow of commodity out of the trough member 156. Onthe contrary, when lowered, the wall members 166 may impede flow ofcommodity out of the trough member 156.

Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5, 11, and 12 , the metering system 130 willbe discussed in greater detail according to example embodiments. In someembodiments, the metering system 130 may be a volumetric meteringsystem. In other embodiments, the metering system 130 may include be asingulating meter.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the metering system 130 may include at least onemetering assembly 203. In the illustrated embodiment, there are twometering assemblies 203 that extend along the lateral axis 124 of thevehicle 100. One of the metering assemblies 203 is proximate the firstside 120 of the vehicle 100, and the other metering assembly 203 isproximate the second side 120. The metering assemblies 203 may besubstantially similar.

As an example, the metering assembly 203 may be supported on one or moremetering support structures 202 (FIGS. 4 and 12 ). In the illustratedembodiment, the metering assembly 203 may include at least two supportstructures 202 with one at each lateral end of the metering assembly203. The support structures 202 may be substantially similar to eachother. The metering support structure 202 may be a rigid member made,for example, from bent, welded, or otherwise formed steel plate. Themetering support structure 202 may be elongate and may be pivotallyattached at a first joint 204 to the frame 150. More specifically, themetering support structure 202 may be rotatably attached to the plate152 by a pin, a hinge, a bearing, or other fastener. In someembodiments, the metering assembly 203 may rotate about an axis ofrotation that extends substantially parallel to the lateral axis 124.Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 11 , the metering assembly 203 mayrotatably move between a between a first position (i.e., a retracted orlowered position) (shown in phantom) and a second position (i.e., anextended or raised position) (shown in solid lines) relative to theframe 150. As shown, the metering assembly 203 may swing generallyrearward toward the rear end 116 of the vehicle 100 and upward (i.e.,clockwise as viewed in FIG. 11 ) when moving from the first position tothe second position.

In some embodiments, the metering assembly 203 may also include one ormore retainers that selectively retain the metering assembly 203 in thefirst position, in the second position, and/or in an intermediateposition. The retainer may include a latch, a prop bar, a fastener, orother structures. Furthermore, the metering assembly 203 may be manuallymoved by one person and by-hand (i.e., without the aid of additionaltools). Thus, the metering assembly 203 may be easily moved, forexample, when cleaning-out the metering assembly 203. In addition, asshown in FIG. 11 , the metering assembly 203 may have a large range ofmotion for moving between the first and second positions. Accordingly,the interior components described in detail below may be highlyaccessible for cleaning, repair, etc.

Moreover, the central assembly 148 may further include a first coveringstructure 238 and a second covering structure 235. The first and secondcovering structures 238, 235 may be substantially similar to each other.

As a representative example, the covering structure 238 may include arelatively flat panel 239. The panel 239 may be made from sheet metaland may be substantially rigid in some embodiments. The panel 239 mayalso be rectangular and may include a first edge 246, a second edge 248,a first side edge 250, and a second side edge 252.

Furthermore, the covering structure 238 may include one or more coveringsupport structures 243 (FIGS. 2, 4, and 12 ). In the illustratedembodiment, the covering structure 238 may include at least two supportstructures 243 with one at each lateral end of the panel 239. Thesupport structures 243 may be substantially similar to each other. Thecovering support structure 243 may be a rigid member made, for example,from bent, welded, or otherwise formed steel plate. The covering supportstructure 243 may be elongate and may be pivotally attached at a secondjoint 240 to the support structure 202 of the metering assembly 203.More specifically, the covering support structure 243 may be rotatablyattached to the metering support structure 202 by a bracket, a hinge, apin, a bearing, or other hardware. Also, the second joint 240 may bedisposed proximate the second edge 248 (i.e., the lower edge) of thepanel 239. The covering support structure 243 may rotate about an axisof rotation that extends substantially parallel to the lateral axis 124.

Accordingly, the first covering structure 238 and the second coveringstructure 235 may independently move relative to the respective meteringassembly 203 between a number of positions. In some embodiments, thecovering structures 238, 235 may have a first position (FIG. 2 ),wherein the panels 239 cover over the rear-facing portions of themetering assemblies 203. In FIG. 4 , the second covering structure 235is shown in a second position, wherein the panel 239 has rotated(flipped) downward to be substantially parallel to the ground and toexpose the metering assembly 203. Also, in FIG. 4 , the first coveringstructure 238 is shown in a third position, wherein the panel 239 hasrotated (flipped) further downward to be more perpendicular to theground and wherein the metering assembly 203 is exposed.

In some embodiments, the covering structures 238, 235 may include one ormore retainers that selectively retain the panel 239 in the firstposition, the second position, and/or the third position. For example,as shown in FIG. 2 , the retainer may include at least one magneticelement 254 that releasably and magnetically retains the panel 239 inthe first position. The magnetic element 254 may be a permanent magnetsupported on the panel 239, proximate the first edge 246. The magneticelement 254 may magnetically attach to the metallic material of thetrough member 156 in some embodiments. In other embodiments, thecovering structures 238, 235 may include different retainers, such as amechanical latch. It will be appreciated that the retainers are optionaland that, in additional embodiments, the covering structure 238, 235 maybe self-supporting such that the panel 239 remains stationary and fixedin the first position due to the way that its weight is distributed onthe metering assembly 203 at the first position.

The covering structures 238, 235 provide several advantages. Forexample, the covering structures 238, 235 may selectively cover over themetering assembly 203, protecting these components from the elements,from dust, and other foreign objects. Moreover, the covering structures238, 235 may be easily moved to expose the metering assembly 203, forexample, during clean-out, repair, etc.

It is also noted that the metering assembly 203 is highly accessible.Indeed, the covering structure 238, 235 may be moved relative to themetering assembly 203 to expose the rear-facing portions of the meteringassembly 203. Also, the metering assembly 203 may be moved relative tothe frame 150 to expose the front-facing portions of the meteringassembly 203.

Referring now to FIGS. 4, 6, 8, and 9 , components of the meteringassembly 203 will be discussed according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure. As shown, the metering assembly 203 may include ametering element 206. In some embodiments, the metering element 206 maybe a rotatable metering element 206 that provides volumetric metering.The metering element 206 may be referred to as a roller or a rollercartridge.

The rotatable metering element 206 may include a shaft 208 with a firstend 209 and a second end 211 (FIG. 4 ). The shaft 208 may have arelatively straight axis that extends substantially parallel to thelateral axis 124. The metering element 206 may also include a pluralityof wheels 210 that are supported on the shaft 208. The wheels 210 mayinclude a plurality of projections 212 that project radially away fromthe wheel 210.

Additionally, the metering element 206 may include at least bearingstructure 214 (FIGS. 8 and 9 ). For example as shown in FIG. 8 , theremay be a bearing structure 214 that rotatably supports the first end 209of the shaft 208. Although not shown, there may also be a bearingstructure 214 that rotatably supports the second end 211 of the shaft.The bearing structure 214 may include an outer structure (e.g., an outerrace of the bearing) that is configured to releasably attach to themetering support structure 202. In some embodiments, the bearingstructure 214 may be rectangular or cruciform in shape and may includeone or more (e.g., four) grooves 258. The bearing structure 214 may bereceived in an opening of the metering support structure 202, and one ormore of the grooves 258 may receive an edge of the metering supportstructure 202 to support the bearing structure 214 thereon.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 , the metering assembly 203 may furtherinclude a latch mechanism 224. The latch mechanism 224 may include alever 221 with a first portion 217 and a second portion 219 that areseparated at a distance. In some embodiments, the lever 221 may begenerally L-shaped. Also, the first portion 217 of the lever 221 mayinclude a hook feature 223. The lever 221 may be attached to themetering support structure 202, and the lever 221 may rotate between alatched position (FIG. 8 ) and an unlatched position (FIG. 9 ). In thelatched position, the hook feature 223 may engage the bearing structure214 of the metering element 206. For example, the hook feature 223 maybe received within a notch 256 of the bearing structure 214 forengagement and attaching the metering element 206 to the meteringsupport structure 202. When the latch mechanism 224 is in the unlatchedposition, the hook feature 223 may be disposed outside the notch 256 torelease the bearing structure 214.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the latch mechanism 224 may include abiasing member 230. The biasing member 230 may include a spring, such asa compression spring, a torsion spring, etc. The biasing member 230 maybias the lever 221 toward the latched position (FIG. 8 ). Accordingly,when unlatching the metering element 206, the user may press against thefirst portion 217 of the lever 221, against the biasing force providedby the biasing member 230 until the hook feature 223 moves out of thenotch 256.

Moreover, in some embodiments, as the lever 221 rotates toward theunlatched position, the second portion 219 may rotate toward and abutagainst the bearing structure 214 and push the metering element 206 awayfrom the metering support structure 202. Accordingly, the lever 221 mayassist the user in removal of the metering element 206 from the meteringsupport structure 202 for added convenience.

When re-assembling the metering element 206, the user may press thebearing structure 214 of the metering element 206 against the latchmechanism 224 and move the lever 221 toward the unlatched position. Theuser may continue pushing the bearing structure 214 into place, allowingthe biasing member 230 to bias the hook feature 223 into engagement withthe bearing structure 214.

As shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 6, 8 and 9 , the metering assembly 203 mayfurther include a plurality of commodity tubes 216. The commodity tubes216 may be referred to as commodity cups. As an example, the commoditytube 216 may include a plurality of side walls 218 (FIGS. 6, 8, and 9 ).The side walls 218 may be arranged about a tube axis 227 (FIG. 3 ) so asto define a passage 225. The passage 225 may have a first end 220 and asecond end 222 (FIG. 3 ). The commodity tubes 216 may be supported byone or more transverse support bars 201, which extend between themetering support structures 202. As such, the first end 220 of thecommodity tube 216 may be disposed proximate the metering element 206for receiving the commodity. Also, as shown in FIG. 6 , an opposing pairof the side walls 218 may define a notch 264 in the commodity tube 216.The notch 264 may extend at an angle relative to the tube axis 227. Thenotch 264 may receive the shaft 208 of the metering element 206.

Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the metering assembly 203 mayinclude a plurality of divider members 232. As shown in FIG. 7 , thedivider member 232 may include a barrier wall 234 and one or moreretainers 236. The barrier wall 234 may be a relatively flat plate ofmaterial, such as a polymeric material. The barrier wall 234 may includea notch-like opening 237 in some embodiments. The opening 237 mayreceive the shaft 208 of the metering element 206 as shown in FIG. 6 .In some embodiments, the barrier wall 234 may be substantially C-shapedand may include retainer 236 at each end. The retainers 236 may beintegrally attached to the barrier wall 234 so as to be monolithic. Theretainers 236 may be configured as resiliently flexible clips in someembodiments; however, it will be appreciated that the retainers 236could be bolts, separate fasteners, or other components withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments,the retainer 236 may curve away from the barrier wall 234 and backtoward the barrier wall 234. Accordingly, the retainer 236 may define anopen end 260. As shown in FIG. 7 , the retainers 236 of the dividermember 232 may have different orientations relative to each other. Forexample, the orientation of one retainer 236 may be orientedapproximately ninety degrees (90°) relative to the other (i.e.,orthogonal orientations). Stated differently, the open end 260 of oneretainer 236 may be directed along the fore-aft axis 118, and the openend 260 of the other retainer 236 may be directed along the verticalaxis 126.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the divider member 232 may be removably attached toa side wall 218 of a commodity tube 216. Specifically, the open ends 260of the retainers 236 may receive a lip 262 of the commodity tube 216proximate the first end 220 of the passage 225. (One retainer 236 mayreceive a vertical lip 262, and the other retainer 236 may receive ahorizontal lip 262 as shown.) The lip 262 may include an enlarged ridge263. Once attached, the resiliency of the retainers 236 and the enlargedridge 263 may help retain the divider member 232 to the commodity tube216. The barrier wall 234 may be received within and may be layered overthe inner surface of the side wall 218. Also, the shaft 208 may bereceived within the opening 237 of the divider member 232. Accordingly,the barrier wall 234 may act as a barrier for directing the commodity asit falls through the commodity tube 216.

Furthermore, the divider member 232 may facilitate assembly,disassembly, and re-assembly of the metering element 206. For example,because of the orientation of the retainers 236, the divider member 232may be retained to the side wall 218 and, yet, may float along at leasttwo axes (e.g., the fore-aft axis 118 and the vertical axis 126). Thismay facilitate installation of the metering element 206. In some cases,the divider members 232 or other components may be slightly misaligned.Regardless, the metering element 206 may be inserted, pushing thedivider member 232 into alignment due to the orientation of theretainers 236.

During operation of the metering assembly 203, the metering element 206may rotate about the axis of the shaft 208. Commodity from the troughmember 156 may fall onto the wheels 210 of the metering element 206. Asthe metering element 206 rotates, the commodity may fall from the wheels210 and into the first end 220 of the passage 225. The commodity mayfall through the passage 225 and exit the commodity tube 216 through thesecond end 222.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-4, 13, and 14 , the airflow system 132 will bediscussed in greater detail. As mentioned above, the airflow system 132may include a fan 134 that generates the airflow (FIG. 3 ). The airflowsystem 132 may also include at least one upstream duct structure 266that is fluidly connected to the fan 134 to receive airflow therefrom.The airflow system 132 may further include at least one plenum assembly268, which is fluidly connected to the upstream duct structure 266 toreceive airflow therefrom. In some embodiments, the plenum assembly 268may also receive the commodity metered out from the metering assembly203, and blow the commodity toward the distribution system 136 fordelivery to the soil.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 , there may be a first plenum assembly 268 anda second plenum assembly 270. Accordingly, each metering assembly 203may have an associated plenum assembly 268, 270. The plenum assemblies268, 270 may be substantially similar to each other.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 13 , the plenum assembly 268 may include aplenum 272. The plenum may be a hollow member with an inlet end 274 andan outlet end 280. The plenum 272 may define an axis 276 that extendsbetween the inlet end 274 and the outlet end 280. The inlet end 274 maybe substantially circular in cross section. The inlet end 274 may befluidly connected to the upstream duct structure 266. The plenum 272 maytaper outward in width (i.e., along the lateral axis 124) as the plenum272 extends in a downstream direction from the inlet end 274, generallyrearward toward a curved segment 278. The axis 276 may turn forwardthrough the curved segment 278. Also, the plenum 272 may include astepped wall 282 that defines the outlet end 280. The wall 282 mayinclude a plurality of apertures 284 (e.g., through-holes) extendingtherethrough.

The plenum assembly 268 may also include a plenum support structure 286.The plenum support structure 286 may be made from a rigid and strongmaterial, such as steel. In some embodiments, the support structure 286may include a mount 288 and a bracket 290 (FIG. 13 ). The mount 288 mayinclude a base flange 292 that extends along the lateral axis 124. Themount 288 may further include a plurality of projections 294. Theprojections 294 may be spaced apart along the lateral length of themount 288. As shown, the projections 294 may extend from the base flange292 at an angle (e.g., at an acute angle relative to the lateral axis124 and the vertical axis 126. The mount 288 may additionally include abacking plate 289. The backing plate 289 may be disposed inside theplenum 272. The projections 294 and the backing plate 289 may sandwich apart of the stepped wall 282 therebetween and a plurality of fasteners320 may be used for attaching the mount 288 to the stepped wall.

The brackets 290 may be attached to opposite ends of the mount 288 asshown in FIG. 2 . The brackets 290 may also be attached to the frame 150at a third joint 296 (FIG. 10 ). In some embodiments, the brackets 290may support rotational movement of the plenum assembly 268 relative tothe frame 150 about the third joint 296. The axis of rotation of thethird joint 296 may extend substantially parallel to the lateral axis124. Thus, the plenum assembly 268 may rotate between a raised position(shown in phantom in FIG. 10 ) and a lowered position (shown in solidlines). The plenum assembly 268 may rotate generally downward andforward when moving from the raised position to the lowered position.The plenum assembly 268 may also include a retainer (e.g., a latch) forretaining the plenum assembly 268, for example, in the raised position.In some embodiments, the plenum assembly 268 may be connected to aportion of the metering assembly 203 when in the raised position, andthe plenum assembly 268 may be spaced apart from the metering assembly203 when in the lowered position.

In some embodiments, the plenum assembly 268 may be lowered manuallywithout the aid of extra tools. Also, the plenum assembly 268 mayinclude a handle 299. The handle 299 may be attached to the supportstructure 286 and may extend laterally across the curved segment 278 ofthe plenum 272. The user may grasp the handle 299 for raising andlowering the plenum assembly 268.

It will be appreciated that the range of motion of the plenum assembly268 (between the raised position and the lowered position) is relativelylarge (e.g., at least eighty degrees of rotation about the third joint296). Accordingly, the plenum assembly 268 may swing downward andlowered out of the way to provide access to the metering assembly 203.For example, the plenum assembly 268 may be lowered to provide access tothe second end 222 of the commodity tubes 216. In some embodiments, theplenum assembly 268 may swing far enough to allow access to thecommodity tubes 216 along the axis 227 in an upstream direction (i.e.,toward the first end 220). In other words, the plenum assembly 268 maymove far enough such that the axis 227 does not intersect the plenumassembly 268 as it extends out from the second end 222 of the commoditytube 216. Accordingly, the plenum assembly 268 may be lowered to exposethe metering assembly 203, for example, when cleaning out the meteringassembly 203.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 4 , when the plenum assembly 268 islowered, the covering structure 238 may be flipped down to the thirdposition, wherein the covering structure 238 exposes the meteringassembly 203 and is substantially perpendicular to the ground. Thisallows for increased access to the metering assembly 203.

As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 , the plenum assembly 268 may furtherinclude at least one venturi structure 300. The venturi structure 300may be a unitary, one piece member in some embodiments. The venturistructure 300 may be made from a polymeric material in some embodiments.The venturi structure 300 may also be formed via molding, casting,additive manufacturing, or using other techniques.

The venturi structure 300 may include a funnel portion 302 (i.e., asupport structure). The funnel portion 302 may include a divider wall304. The divider wall 304 may divide the interior of the funnel portion302 into a first passage 306 and a second passage 308. The venturistructure 300 may also include a support plate 312 that extends from anupper lip of the funnel portion 302. A slot 314 may be defined betweenthe support plate and the funnel portion 302.

Additionally, the venturi structure 300 may include a first venturi tube316 and a second venturi tube 318. The first and second venturi tubes316, 318 may extend through the support plate 312 and may projectforward from the funnel portion 302. The first venturi tube 316 may befluidly connected to the first passage 306. Also, the first venturi tube316 may extend substantially perpendicular relative to the first passage306. Furthermore, the second venturi tube 318 may be fluidly connectedto the second passage 308 and may extend substantially perpendicularthereto.

In some embodiments, the first and second venturi tubes 316, 318 may beoffset along the lateral axis 124 with respect to each other. Also, thefirst and second venturi tubes 316, 318 may be offset along the verticalaxis 126 with respect to each other.

The venturi structure 300 may be removeably attached to the plenum 272and/or the mount 288. For example, the projection 294 of the mount 288may be received within the slot 314 of the venturi structure 300.Moreover, a respective one of the fasteners 320 may extend through theprojection 294, the stepped wall 282 of the plenum 272, the supportplate 312 of the venturi structure 300, and the backing plate 289 tosecure the venturi structure 300 to the plenum 272 and the plenumsupport structure 286. In some embodiments, the fastener 320 may be theonly fastener needed for attaching the venturi structure 300. Thus, theventuri structure 300 may be installed and removed relatively quicklyand conveniently.

Also, the inlet ends of the first and second venturi tubes 316, 318 maybe fluidly connected to respective ones of the apertures 284 of theplenum 272. The outlet ends of the venturi tubes 316, 318 may beconnected to respective hoses 322 of the distribution system 136 (FIG. 3).

It will be appreciated that the staggered arrangement of the venturitubes 316, 318 may make the plenum assembly 268 relatively compact.Accordingly a large number of venturi tubes 316, 318 may be arrangedalong the lateral axis 124, and yet there can be enough room for thehoses 322 of the distribution system 136 and other structures on thework vehicle 100.

As represented in FIG. 3 , the work vehicle 100 may further include acontrol system 350. The control system 350 may include and/orcommunicate with components of a computerized device, such as aprocessor, a data storage device, a user interface with a display and akeyboard or other related devices, etc. The control system 350 maycommunicate with an actuator 352. In some embodiments, the actuator 352may be operably connected to the metering element 206 for driving (e.g.,rotating) the metering element 206. The actuator 352 may be of anysuitable type, such as an electric motor, a hydraulic actuator, orotherwise. Also, the control system 350 may be in communication with asensor 354 configured to detect a speed (e.g., an angular speed) of theactuator 352 and/or the metering element 206. The sensor 354 may be anoptical sensor, an electrical sensor, or other type without departingfrom the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, in someembodiments, the control system 350 may control the motor 356 andreceive associated feedback from the sensor 354 for closed-loop control.Also, in some embodiments, the control system 350 may be incommunication with the fan 134 for controlling the airflow system 132.It will be appreciated that the control system 350 may be incommunication with and may control other systems as well.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 , the actuator 352 may include an electricmotor 356. The electric motor 356 may include a first output member 358and a second output member 360. The first output member 358 may be ashaft that is attached directly to the motor 356. The second outputmember 360 may be a gear or other transmission component thatselectively engages with the first output member 358. The second outputmember 360 may be operably connected to the metering element 206. Asshown in FIG. 2 , the first and second output members 358, 360 may beengaged such that power output from the motor is transferred to themetering element 206. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 12 , the first andsecond output members 358, 360 may disengage when moving the meteringassembly 203 from the lowered position to the raised position.

Accordingly, during operation, the work vehicle 100 may be towed acrossa field with the metering assembly 203, and the plenum assembly 268 inthe positions shown in FIG. 3 (i.e., the metering assembly 203 in theretracted position and the plenum assembly 268 in the raised position).The control system 350 may generate control signals for operating theelectric motor 356 at a controlled speed, such that the metering element206 meters out a predetermined amount of the commodity from thecommodity container 128. The commodity may travel through the commoditytube 216 and fall into either the first passage 306 or second passage308 of the venturi structure 300. The commodity may be ejected from theventuri structure 300 toward the distribution system 136 and ultimatelyto the soil.

There may be a need to clean out the metering assembly 203. For example,the user may want to plant a different commodity than the one currentlyloaded. Internal components may also need to be reconfigured, replaced,repaired, etc. Advantageously, the metering assembly 203 and the plenumassembly 268 may move between various positions to facilitate clean-out,repair, etc.

For example, the metering assembly 203 and the plenum assembly 268 canbe conveniently moved and accessed from the rear side 116 of the vehicle100. As shown in FIG. 1 , the metering assembly 203 may be disposedbetween the central wheels 112 of the vehicle 100, allowing user access.Also, the metering assembly 203 may be disposed rearward with respect tothe cutters, tillers, or other ground-engaging tools of the groundsystem 138. More specifically, the metering assembly 203 may be disposedat a first axial position 101, whereas the ground engaging-tools of theground system 138 may be disposed at a second axial positon 103. Thefirst axial position 101 may be disposed rearward on the axis 118relative to the second axial position 103. Accordingly, the user mayaccess the metering assembly 203 without interference from the groundsystem 138.

Also, to access internal components of the metering assembly 203 and/orthe plenum assembly 268, the user manually uses the handle 299 to rotateand lower the plenum assembly 268 as represented in FIG. 10 . In thisposition, the user may probe the second end 222 of the commodity tube216. Furthermore, the user may rotate and lift the metering assembly 203as represented in FIG. 11 . This provides access to the meteringassembly 203 as represented in FIG. 5 . Moreover, the user may rotateand flip over the covering structure 238 as represented in FIG. 12 .

Furthermore, the metering assembly 203 may be disposed high enough offof the ground to allow a receptacle 397 (e.g., a probox) to be placedunderneath the metering assembly 203. In some embodiments, with theplenum assembly 268 lowered and moved forward, the metering assembly 203may disposed at a height 399 (measured from the ground, soil, etc.) ofat least sixty-five inches (65 in.) to accommodate the receptacle 397.The underside of the metering assembly 203 may be at least sixty-fiveinches off the ground in the lowered position (FIG. 11 ) as well.Accordingly, the receptacle 397 may be used to conveniently capture thecommodity cleaned out of the metering assembly 203.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure.As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify thepresence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements,and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of oneor more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,components, and/or groups thereof.

The description of the present disclosure has been presented forpurposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to beexhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Manymodifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art without departing from the scope and spirit of thedisclosure. Explicitly referenced embodiments herein were chosen anddescribed in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure andtheir practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill inthe art to understand the disclosure and recognize many alternatives,modifications, and variations on the described example(s). Accordingly,various embodiments and implementations other than those explicitlydescribed are within the scope of the following claims.

1. (canceled)
 2. (canceled)
 3. (canceled)
 4. (canceled)
 5. A meteringsystem for a work vehicle comprising: a support structure with apassage; a divider member having a barrier wall and a retainer, thebarrier wall including a notch, the retainer attaching the dividermember to the support structure; and a rotatable metering element with ashaft and a projection that projects from the shaft substantially in aradial direction, the shaft being removably received within the notch;the rotatable metering element configured to rotate within the notchrelative to the support structure such that the projection meters out acommodity into the passage of the support structure; and the barrierwall directing at least some of the commodity into the passage.
 6. Themetering system of claim 5, wherein the retainer includes a clip that isconfigured to removably clip onto a lip of the support structure.
 7. Themetering system of claim 6, wherein the clip is a first clip disposed onone side of the notch; wherein the retainer includes a second clipdisposed on an opposite side of the notch; and wherein the first clip isconfigured to clip onto a first lip of the support structure, andwherein the second clip is configured to clip onto a second lip of thesupport structure.
 8. The metering system of claim 5, wherein the firstclip has a first orientation and the second clip has a secondorientation that is substantially orthogonal to the first orientation.9. (canceled)
 10. (canceled)
 11. (canceled)
 12. (canceled)
 13. Themetering system of claim 5, wherein the support structure is a commoditytube having a side wall to which the retainer removably couples thebarrier wall of the divider member.
 14. The metering system of claim 5,wherein the metering element includes a wheel rotatable with the shaftand having the projection.
 15. The metering system of claim 5, whereinthe barrier wall of the divider member is C-shaped defining the notchbetween two clips at terminal ends of the notch.
 16. The metering systemof claim 15, wherein the divider member defines the barrier wall and theclips as an integral monolithic structure.
 17. A metering system for awork vehicle comprising: a support structure with a passage; a dividermember having a barrier wall and a retainer, the barrier wall includinga notch, the retainer attaching the divider member to the supportstructure; and a rotatable metering element with a shaft and a wheelthat projects from the shaft substantially in a radial direction, theshaft being removably received within the notch; the rotatable meteringelement configured to rotate within the notch relative to the supportstructure such that the wheel meters out a commodity into the passage ofthe support structure; and the barrier wall directing at least some ofthe commodity into the passage.
 18. The metering system of claim 17,wherein the retainer includes a clip that is configured to removablyclip onto a lip of the support structure.
 19. The metering system ofclaim 18, wherein the clip is a first clip disposed on one side of thenotch; wherein the retainer includes a second clip disposed on anopposite side of the notch; and wherein the first clip is configured toclip onto a first lip of the support structure, and wherein the secondclip is configured to clip onto a second lip of the support structure.20. The metering system of claim 19, wherein the first clip has a firstorientation and the second clip has a second orientation that issubstantially orthogonal to the first orientation.
 21. The meteringsystem of claim 17, wherein the support structure is a commodity tubehaving a side wall to which the retainer removably couples the barrierwall of the divider member.
 22. The metering system of claim 17, whereinthe barrier wall of the divider member is C-shaped defining the notchbetween two clips at terminal ends of the notch.
 23. The metering systemof claim 22, wherein the divider member defines the barrier wall and theclips as an integral monolithic structure.
 24. A metering system for awork vehicle comprising: a commodity tube having a side wall anddefining a passage; a divider member having a barrier wall and aretainer, the barrier wall including a notch, the retainer attaching thedivider member to the commodity tube; and a rotatable metering elementwith a shaft and a wheel that projects from the shaft substantially in aradial direction, the shaft being removably received within the notch;the rotatable metering element configured to rotate within the notchrelative to the commodity tube such that the wheel meters out acommodity into the passage of the commodity tube; and the barrier walldirecting at least some of the commodity into the passage.
 25. Themetering system of claim 24, wherein the retainer includes a clip thatis configured to removably clip onto a lip of the commodity tube. 26.The metering system of claim 25, wherein the clip is a first clipdisposed on one side of the notch; wherein the retainer includes asecond clip disposed on an opposite side of the notch; and wherein thefirst clip is configured to clip onto a first lip of the commodity tube,and wherein the second clip is configured to clip onto a second lip ofthe commodity tube.
 27. The metering system of claim 26, wherein thefirst clip has a first orientation and the second clip has a secondorientation that is substantially orthogonal to the first orientation.28. The metering system of claim 24, wherein the barrier wall of thedivider member is C-shaped defining the notch between two clips atterminal ends of the notch as an integral monolithic structure.